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Identifying Fake U.S. Soldiers - 2025 Techniques to Spot Fake Soldiers How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Scammers continue to impersonate U.S., Canadian, U.K., and European soldiers to manufacture trust, push secrecy and urgency, and extract money through gift cards, crypto, “leave” [...]
Avoid Disaster & Charity Scams Protecting Generosity: How to Avoid Charity Scams Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions from National Cybersecurity Alliance PLEASE NOTE: Because of the rampant number of charity scams, the SCARS Institute no longer accepts individual donations. [...]
A New Scam - My Photos Money Recovery Scam A New Kind of Social Media Money Recovery Scam or Scam Victim Assistance Scam The Rise of "Scam Savior" Scams: A New Layer of Deception on Social Media How Scams Work // Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. [...]
Commission-Based Task Job Scams Understanding the Hidden Mechanism of Commission-Based Task Job Scams Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Commission-based task job scams exploit the appeal of easy remote work by offering small payments for simple online actions before introducing “premium” tasks [...]
The Danger of Scams - 6 Ways Scams Can Hurt You What Are the Dangers from Scams and Scammers? A Practical Guide for Your Online and Physical Safety Online Safety // Cybersecurity - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Scammers pose far greater risks than just [...]
Bitcoin ATMs - A Scammers' Favorite Tool & Public Menace Are Bitcoin ATMs Doing More Harm Than Good? How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Bitcoin ATMs began as a tool for financial inclusion but now serve as a key instrument in a [...]
Smartphone Ads: Scams and Abuse - Interstitial Ads are Designed to Manipulate and Deceive How Interstitial Smartphone Ads Turn into Mobile Scamware and Abuse Cellphone Users How Scams Work // Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Many mobile phone users unknowingly face [...]
Carl Sagan’s Baloney Detection Toolkit Scam Detection: The Fine Art of Scam Awareness and Avoidance Based on Carl Sagan’s Baloney Detection Toolkit Scam & Deception Avoidance - A SCARS Institute Insight Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Based, in part, on and interpreted from the work of Carl Sagan Article Abstract [...]
Passwords vs. Passkeys - The New Reality Securing the Digital Self After a Scam: Why Passkeys Are the Future of Online Safety for Scam Victims and Passwords are Obsolete Online Safety - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract After a scam, rebuilding digital security is one [...]
Do Not Click 'Unsubscribe' Links in Your Email Think Twice Before You Click ‘Unsubscribe’ - it's a Trap! How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract You probably think clicking “unsubscribe” is a smart way to clean up your inbox, but that small action can create bigger [...]
University Ghost Students Scam AI-Powered ‘Ghost Students’ Scam Exploit Government & University Financial Aid System and Scams both Students and Universities How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract A new wave of financial aid fraud is targeting community colleges across the United States through the use [...]
ICE Impersonators - New Extortion Scam Targeting Illegal Aliens in the U.S. The Deportation Threat: ICE Impersonators Engaged in a New Extortion Scam Targeting Undocumented Hispanic Immigrants in the U.S. How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract A dangerous new ICE Importsonators Extortion Scam is targeting [...]
Buried Cell Phones/Smartphones & Hidden Cameras New Cybercrime - Cyber Surveillance by Local Criminals The Emergence of Covert Surveillance in Residential Areas How Cybercriminals Operate - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract A chilling new cybercrime emerges. People around the U.S. unearth buried cell phones and hidden cameras in [...]
Fraudster Glossary - 2025 How Scams Work - Presented by the SCARS Institute Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Fraudster Glossary © 2023-2025 by Eric Huber is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 Fraudster Glossary - 2025 Understanding Fraudster/Scammer Terms Term/PhraseDescriptionActual Fraudster UsageCommentary3PTThree-peatJust Popped Again Off The Same September Grub 🚨🚨 3PTBasically, it's when a [...]
Cryptocurrency Mixers - a Tool Scammers & Cybercriminals Use to Hide Their Stolen Crypto Cryptocurrency Mixers: What They Are and Why They Matter to Criminals (Scammers & Cybercriminals,) Victims, and Law Enforcement How Scammers Operate - A SCARS Institute Insight Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions from U.S. Secret Service Article Abstract Cryptocurrency [...]
Fake Customer Service Scams How They Target You and How to Protect Yourself How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Fake customer service scams exploit your instinct to seek help when problems arise, using fake listings, cloned websites, and social media traps to deceive you. These [...]
Take Control of Your Digital Life & Footprint - If You Don't the Criminals Will Manage Your Digital Footprint - Tread Lightly Online and How to Control Your Digital Life Online Safety - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Your digital footprint includes everything you do online, from the accounts [...]
Growth Cave Business Opportunity and Credit Repair Scam Unraveling the Growth Cave Scam - Luring In Victims with Business Growth Opportunities and Credit Repair How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The Growth Cave Business Opportunity and Credit Repair Scam combined false promises of income and [...]
The SCARS Institute Top 50 Celebrity Impersonation Scams The SCARS Institute's Top 50 most impersonated traditional celebrities in online, SMS, and messaging scams How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The SCARS Institute's investigation into the top 50 celebrity impersonation scams reveals that criminals are consistently [...]
Passkeys - Better than Passwords - The Next Cybersecurity Solution The Future of Online Authentication and Replacing Passwords Cyber Basics - A SCARS Institute ToolBox Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Based on information from the National Cyber Security Centre. Article Abstract Passkeys are emerging as a secure and user-friendly alternative to traditional passwords, [...]
Scammers Buying Anti-Scam Groups to Have Access to Scam Victims The Alarming Trend of Scammers Purchasing Anti-Scam Groups to Gain Access to Scam Victims and Re-Scam Them How Scammers Operate - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract A troubling new tactic is emerging in the world of online scams, [...]
ELLEN DEGENERES PRIZE SCAM An Online & Email Lotto/Sweepstakes Scam Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The Ellen DeGeneres prize scam has seen a significant rise, targeting unsuspecting individuals with false promises of prizes like $30,000 to $100,000, iPhones, kitchen appliances, and even a Tesla, [...]
The Chinese Police Impersonation Scam A High-Control Fraud Targeting the Vulnerable Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The Chinese police impersonation scam is a complex and highly manipulative fraud that uses psychological control, fear, and impersonation of authority to trap victims into compliance. It typically [...]
eBay Storytelling Scams - eCommerce Fakery Unraveling eBay and eCommerce Storytelling Scams: How eCommerce Fakery with Emotional Narratives Hooks You with Fake Product Stories Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • From a suggestion from Gabriel at Wizer-Traing.com Article Abstract As a savvy online shopper, you will [...]
Wrong Number Text Scam - Opening the Door to Relationship & Crypto Investment Scammers Understanding the Wrong Number Text Scam: A Growing Digital Threat for Smartphone Users Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Scam Alert Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The wrong number text scam is an increasingly common and dangerous [...]
Clone Phishing - Email Scam Unmasking Clone Phishing: A Deceptive Email Cyber Threat Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Clone phishing is a sophisticated form of cybercrime where attackers replicate legitimate emails—such as newsletters, invoices, or account notifications—to trick recipients into clicking malicious links or [...]
FRAUD WARNING: Credit Card Skimmer - Credit Card Fraud Is Everywhere! Understanding Credit Card Skimmers: A Hidden Threat to Your Finances FRAUD WARNING - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Credit card skimmers are deceptive, often invisible devices that steal your card data during routine transactions, posing a hidden [...]
Home Equity Scams in the United States Understanding the Epidemic of Home Equity Scams in the U.S. Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Home equity scams are a rapidly growing threat in the United States, preying on the $32.8 trillion in collective homeowner equity built [...]
The $20 Distraction Scam - A Local Con Game/Fraud The Classic $20 Distraction Scam is a Cunning Street Con that uses a Small Sum of Money Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The classic $20 distraction scam is a street con prevalent in busy urban [...]
New Instant Smartphone Apps Scams - Data Mining and Phishing at the Same Time The Rapid Rise of Smartphone Apps Creation: A Double-Edged Sword for You to Navigate Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The rapid rise of smartphone app creation tools has revolutionized how [...]
Healthcare (Health Care) Fraud in the United States Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Healthcare fraud in the United States is a serious and costly crime that affects individuals, businesses, and government programs alike. It involves deliberate deception by medical providers, patients, or others to [...]
Seller Impersonation Fraud - A Business Impersonation Scam When Scammers Pretend to Be Trusted Sellers to Exploit You Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Seller impersonation fraud is a rapidly growing threat in the digital marketplace, targeting both consumers and businesses by exploiting trust and [...]
Fake Urban Planning Survey Scam - A Government Impersonation Scam A Deceptive Threat Disguised as Civic Engagement Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The Fake Urban Planning Survey Scam is a dangerous form of government impersonation that exploits your civic instincts. It appears harmless at [...]
Real Estate Title Fraud (Title Theft or Deed Theft): A Comprehensive Guide to Protection and Prevention A Homeowner's Guide to Safeguarding Your Property from Modern-Day Title Thieves How Scams Work - SCARS Institute Catalog of Scams Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Real estate title fraud, also known as home title theft or [...]
Analytical Overview of West African Scammer Gangs & Organizations Analyzing the Operational Dynamics of Scammer Gangs, Groups, and Organizations in West Africa - Including Ghana and Nigeria How Scammers Operate - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract West African scammer gangs exhibit complex and highly adaptive operational dynamics driven [...]
What Do Nigerian Scammers Do After They Retire? What Nigerian Scammers Do After They Quit and How They Use Their Stolen Money How Scammers Operate - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Nigerian scammers who leave active fraud do not simply vanish; instead, many use their stolen wealth to [...]
Why People Spread Urban Legends Half-Truths and Conspiracy Theories Scam Victims Often Spread Urban Legends, Half-Truths, and Conspiracy Theories – and it does Significant Damage Both to Victims' Recovery and Impacts Law Enforcement Success Urban Legends - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Scam victims often turn to online [...]
United Nations New Crime Classification System for Crime Including Scams Fraud and Cybercrimes The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Releases Their New: International Classification of Crime for Statistical Purposes (ICCS): Implementation Manual Presented by the SCARS Institute Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Article [...]
Fighting Scams, Fraud, and Cybercrimes in the United States Government United States Government Entities Involved in Defending Against, Enforcing Laws on, and Prosecuting Scams, Fraud, and Cybercrimes Government & Law Enforcement - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The U.S. government employs a multi-agency approach to combat scams, fraud, [...]
ANTI-SCAM TIP: Fake Videos and Information are Almost Indistinguishable Now How to Spot and Question Suspicious or Fake Videos and Information in a World Where Fake and Real Blur Together Indistinguishably A SCARS Institute Anti-Scam Tip Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract In an era where real and fake content blur together, distinguishing between [...]
Mexican Cartel Jalisco Nuevo Generación Timeshare Vacation Scams The Mexican 'Cartel Jalisco Nuevo Generación' Target Americans and Foreigners for Timeshare Vacation Scams in Mexico How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions from the FBI Article Abstract The Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), the Gulf Cartel, and [...]
10 Facts About Cryptocurrency That All Scam Victims Should Know Cryptocurrency and Its Role in Criminal Transactions and Scams How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Cryptocurrencies, while often promoted as revolutionary financial tools, come with significant risks that users must understand. Their irreversible transactions make [...]
UK 159 - Scam Hotline Introducing 159: A Direct Line to Banking Security Reporting and Stopping Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract 159 is a vital tool in the fight against financial fraud, providing UK consumers with a secure and direct way to contact their bank when [...]
Scam Victim Warning - Do Not Report Scams to the Police in These Countries Because of Sharia Law Because of Sharia Law In Many Countries Around the World Scam Victims Can Face Serious Consequences for Reporting Scams Scam Reporting Warning - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The SCARS [...]
U.S. Immigration ICE Agent Imposter Scam Federal Immigration Agent Impersonation Scam How Scams Work - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract Immigrant communities across the United States are being targeted by scammers pretending to be agents from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) or local police. These fraudsters intimidate [...]
Chinese Scammers Targeting Chinese University Students Worldwide with Coercion Scams Chinese Scammers Impersonate Police and Incorporate Aggressive Tactics to Target U.S.-Based Chinese University Student Community Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The FBI has alerted the public to a sophisticated scam targeting the U.S.-based Chinese [...]
URGENT SCAM WARNING: Southern California - Los Angeles Wildfire Evacuation Scams SCAM WARNING ALERT: Scams Targeting Those Evacuating from Southern California/Los Angeles and Their Families are Exploding SCAM WARNING - Presented by the SCARS Institute Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract SCAM WARNING ALERT: Scammers Exploit Southern California Wildfire Evacuations: As 180,000 people face [...]
U.S. Legat - Legal Attaché Worldwide - The FBI's Overseas Offices - 2025 U.S. Legat - Legal Attaché Officers Worldwide - The United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Overseas Offices Reporting Scams Fraud & Cybercrimes - A SCARS Institute Guide Authors: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. • Portions from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation This information [...]
Avoid Christmas Holiday Scams Typical Christmas Holiday Scams: What to Watch Out For and Avoid - Don't Become a Scam Victim This Year Catalog of Scams - A SCARS Institute Insight Author: • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract During the Christmas holiday scams season, scammers exploit the festive spirit and increased online activity to [...]
Criminals Use Generative Artificial Intelligence to Facilitate Financial Fraud FBI Warning About How Criminals Exploit Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Escalate Fraud, Impersonation, and Extortion Schemes FBI WARNING - Presented by the SCARS Institute Authors: • United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) • SCARS Institute Encyclopedia of Scams Editorial Team - Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc. Article Abstract The FBI has issued a [...]
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